Health system leaders shared what's overhyped in healthcare

Hello,

Welcome to Insider Healthcare. I'm healthcare editor Leah Rosenbaum, and today in healthcare news:

• We asked the leaders of billion-dollar healthcare systems what new technologies are overhyped;
• 5am Ventures is raising two new biotech funds;
• What we do — and don't — know about the new Omicron COVID-19 variant.

If you're new to this newsletter, sign up here. Comments, tips? Email me at lrosenbaum@insider.com or tweet @leah_rosenbaum. Let's get to it...

Automation, telehealth and augmented reality: We asked leaders at billion-dollar health systems what tech is currently overhyped.

• Health systems are testing new tech to see what's worth future investment.
• But some buzzy technologies aren't likely to take off soon, leaders of billion-dollar systems tell us.
• Automation, augmented reality and even telehealth might be getting too much hype, they tell Insider.

Check it out>>

Exclusive: One of biotech's top investors, 5AM Ventures, is closing in on 2 new investment funds

• 5AM Ventures is raising $750 million for two new funds for early- and late-stage investments.
• 5AM is one of the longest-running VCs focused on biotech and creates many of its own startups.
• Biotech VCs have been raising record amounts, but a top analyst says that could change in 2022.

Read more now>>

The new coronavirus variant Omicron raises red flags among scientists — but there are more mysteries than answers about its public threat

• The WHO labeled a new coronavirus variant, Omicron, a "variant of concern" on Friday.
• The B.1.1.529 variant contains hallmarks of being more transmissible or dangerous than other strains.
• But scientists have just begun to examine Omicron's threat, including its unfamiliar mutations.

Dive in>>

More stories we're reading:

• 1 chart shows how quickly a booster shot can improve immunity, with some extra protection in just a few days (Insider)
• Pfizer is claiming an employee stole COVID-19 vaccine secrets when leaving the company (Reuters)
• Alzheimer's nasal vaccine to enter human trials for the first time, spurring renewed hope for preventing the disease (Insider)
• Restrictive abortion laws in Texas threaten women with risky pregnancies (The New York Times)

-Leah